Product Engineer

Job Description Job Description PRODUCT ENGINEER Department: Business Management Reports To:

Director of Business Management FLSA Status: Exempt General Purpose of the Position: The Product Engineer is primarily responsible for the technical knowledge and product expertise in the assigned category, in this instance for the brand(s): Poly, Barco, Crestron, Yamaha, Logitech, DTEN and Neat.

Using an intimate understanding of the company’s best practices, work to introduce processes which will improve the company’s technical abilities and vendor relationship(s) for this assigned category. The Product Engineer will work closely with the sales teams, brand and product managers, customers, and vendors to further the company’s technical abilities. Education, Experience, and Core Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) Required:

Bachelor’s Degree in business/economics and or Telecom and or Media. CTS Certification a plus. 10 years demonstrated sales and marketing management experience in the AV products and services industry. Proven ability to lead others in a sales network to meet and exceed measurable sales and revenue goals.

A proven track record of driving profitable growth and demonstration of established relationships. A strategic thinker who can understand a sales strategy while also being tactical and hands-on in the rollout of operational initiatives. Skilled in negotiations with business acumen.

Strong customer focus, with excellent time management and organization skills while managing multiple projects. Seasoned cross-functional communicator with solid business ethics. Strong ability to effectively communicate (oral and written). Clear understanding of Track Selling.

Knowledge of business-related math and application. Ability to use various computer programs and Personal Digital Assistants. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Focus:

Poly First point of contact between Starin and engineers at Poly, Barco, Crestron, Yamaha, Logitech, DTEN and Neat. Create packaging or bundling of products. Participate in company site trainings.

Monitor technical aspects of large project, including creating system designs. Works effectively with all internal teams to ensure consistent execution. Internal and external consultation on product and technical related topics and serve as an overall resource for the sales and business management departments.

Point of contact for technical questions, responding in a timely manner. Organize and create internal training of business management and sales teams. Participate in on site visits with sales, on occasion, to assist in customer/vendor training and customer service.

Attend trade shows and vendor events as Starin representative in a professional and courteous customer service manner. Set best practice for ongoing vendor technical development. Work with the team to create short and long-term business plans and trainings.

Implement marketing activities as required and provide direction to the Marketing category specialists that are in line with the divisional objectives and strategies. Participation in preparation of your vendor’s yearly business plans and new product launches Work with Procurement as an interface to sales to manage inventory and performance of assigned brands. Works with Marketing team and category specialists for web presentation, packaging, and promotion.

Key Skills: General Skills: Customer Focus Teamwork Assertiveness Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and through the written word.

Ability to design, manage, and deliver effective presentations. Ability to conduct effective negotiations with customers & suppliers. Ability to organize and manage your time effectively.

Problem Solving Persuading and influencing Creative thinking and innovation Self-Development Planning and Organization Project Management Commercial and Business Awareness Sales Skills: Selling Business Planning Commercial and Business Awareness Management Skills: Performance and Results Financial Awareness Managing Meetings Continuous Improvement and Managing Change Strategic thinking Business Planning Physical Demands:

Ability to work at a fast pace and maintain accuracy Sales calls may involve various Noise levels and Temperature Variations Lift and move samples and products up to 50 pounds Driving for extended periods of time 10% Travel Requirements Work Environment Primarily an indoor working environment The work environment requires at times long workdays and weekend work May involve at times exposure to various warehouse environments which require the use of personal protective equipment such as hardhats in certain areas Career Path: There are various career paths that can be followed. A product engineer could stay at the level and take on more responsibilities and perhaps more brands. All Associates are encouraged to have discussions with their Supervisor and the Human Resource Manager to view job descriptions and requirements for career advancement.